Public
/ˈpʌblɪk/
Definitions
- (adj.) Pertaining to the community or state as a whole rather than to private individuals.
Public property is owned by the government for the community's use.
- (n.) The people or population at large, collectively considered in relation to laws, policies, or actions.
The government must consider the interests of the public when drafting legislation.
- (adj.) Made accessible or open to all, especially information or meetings.
Court hearings are generally public to ensure transparency.
Commentary
The term 'public' is broadly used in legal contexts to distinguish between collective/state interests and those of private individuals; precision in usage is crucial to avoid ambiguity.